Subaru
BRZ
Toyota
86
Subaru BRZ vs Toyota 86: 2021 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Toyota 86 comes out ahead of the Subaru BRZ on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
BRZ
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment centered on the vehicle's core philosophy as an affordable, lightweight, and balanced sports car. The driving experience is consistently praised for its predictable handling, excellent balance, and engaging nature, with owners describing it as a "back to basics" sports car that delivers thrills through chassis dynamics rather than raw power. The manual transmission is highly favored, and the car is noted for its practicality relative to other sports cars, with usable trunk space and fold-down rear seats.
Best version to buy
Manual transmission is overwhelmingly the preferred choice among enthusiasts. For the first generation (2013-2020), the Limited trim with the Performance Package (Brembo brakes, Sachs dampers) is noted for its enhanced equipment.
Known issues
- ⚠Engine reliability concerns (2022+ FA24 engine): Potential oil starvation and engine failure during sustained high-RPM/high-G cornering (e.g., on track), potentially linked to excess silicone sealant (RTV) blocking the oil pickup.
- ⚠Silicone sealant (RTV) issue: Concern that excess sealant from manufacturing can break off and clog the oil pickup tube in the second-generation models, leading to oil starvation. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Electrical/electronic gremlins: Isolated but severe reports on a 2023 model of complete electrical failure, steering assist warnings, infotainment glitches, and random no-start conditions. Frequency: isolated.
86
Overall
Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with owners expressing deep affection for the driving experience. The car is consistently praised for its engaging, balanced, and fun-to-drive nature, with specific acclaim for its handling, steering feel, and lightweight chassis. The second-generation (GR86) receives particular praise for its more powerful and linear engine, improved body rigidity, and smoother ride, though some long-term first-generation owners note the newer model feels slightly less raw and special.
Best version to buy
For the first generation, the limited/GT trims (e.g., Subaru BRZ Limited, Toyota GT86 GT) with heated seats, push-button start, and fog lights are preferred. The Performance Package (Brembo brakes, Sachs dampers) is noted as a valuable upgrade.
Known issues
- ⚠Valve spring recall (First Generation, early models): A factory recall for valve springs, when performed incorrectly by dealerships, led to widespread catastrophic engine failures.
- ⚠General Subaru engine reliability concerns: Underlying concern about the long-term durability and maintenance costs of the Subaru boxer engine compared to Toyota's reputation, separate from the specific recall. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Poor dealership and corporate customer service: Instances of rude, unprofessional, or unhelpful service from Toyota brand engagement representatives and dealership service departments when addressing warranty or recall issues.
The verdict
The Subaru BRZ is the better choice for most buyers.
It has stronger reliability sentiment in owner reports than the Toyota 86, based on the data above. If the specific known issues on the Subaru BRZ are a dealbreaker, the Toyota 86 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Subaru BRZ or the Toyota 86?
Owner reports lean more positive on reliability for the Subaru BRZ than the Toyota 86. See the known issues comparison above for the specific concerns owners report on each.
Which is better for families, the Subaru BRZ or the Toyota 86?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Subaru BRZ or the Toyota 86?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Subaru BRZ or the Toyota 86?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Subaru BRZ than the Toyota 86. See the known issues comparison above.